Tech is a great thing – in most cases, because many tools that were once the preserve of the experts are easily accessible to all enthusiastic car owners. A particular example is the DIY brake fluid tools. Typically, we should maintain good brake fluid condition for efficient braking.
For a while, brake fluid test strips have been used to measure the mineral or moisture content of brake fluid. However, these chemical strips can be costly and must be disposed of after use. Fortunately, modern technology led to the invention of an LED brake fluid tester. The LED brake fluid tester is inexpensive, reusable, and more accurate.
It is recommended that you use the best brake fluid tester, as moisture content varies depending on the type of brake fluid, driving environment, and vehicle design. However, with so many tools to choose from, it can be a difficult decision. This article has done all the hard work for you.
Our Top 3 Brake Fluid Moisture Testers
Best Brake Fluid Tester Reviews
01. ITEQ Brake Fluid Tester Pen
The ITEQ Brake fluid tester pen is a high-quality, fast fluid tester with 5 LED indicators calibrated for cars using DOT3 and DOT4 fluids. To use it, you only need to turn it on by pressing the power button on top. Green indicates no water, yellow/yellow 1% water, red 3%, and red/red 4% water content. A red color tells you that the brake fluid needs to be changed. After each use, the test probe should be washed with tap water.
The ITEQ tester is calibrated only for DOT4 and DOT3 fluids, but not for DOT5. If your skin comes into contact with the brake fluid, wash the affected area thoroughly.
- It takes only Seconds to get the Results
- Calibrated for Vehicles using DOT4 and DOT3 fluids
- CE and RoH5 Approved
- LED Colors Show the Percentage of Water in the Brake Fluid
02. PTE Tester
The PTE is undoubtedly a great option if you are looking for reliable brake fluid testing. It is calibrated to make results easier to read and interpret, and it is also cheaper than most other options. It also shows the percentage levels of water in the fluid. A percentage of 4 or 3 tells you that you need to be draining the brake fluid and replace it with new brake fluid.
It requires 2 AAA batteries and is only used for DOT4 FLUID. This tester pen quickly determines whether you need to change your brake fluid. This also prevents you from exposing the brake fluid to the atmosphere for long because it is hygroscopic.
- LED indicators that indicate the volume in the percentage of water
- Delivers results in a few seconds
- Uses 1.5V battery
- Calibrated for vehicles using DOT4 fluid
- Easy and fast way to test the moisture content
03. eOUTIL tester
eOUTIL’s brake fluid tester is among the most accurate on the market. Its only downside is that its case is not that resistant to the brake fluid. You should therefore be very cautious and wash it thoroughly. The tester is undoubtedly high-quality equipment that could even be used by an actual mechanic. It can be used to test the water content of both DOT 3 and DOT 4 brake fluids.
It was developed for use in professional automotive repair shops and for vehicle servicing. It has 5 LEDs that indicate the corresponding percentage of water in the brake fluid. It is also operated by a 1.5V AAA battery.
- Designed for Professional Use
- It has 5 LEDs to show the Water Percentage
- Operated by LRO3 AAA Battery (1.5V)
- A Digital Tester Great for Testing a Vehicle’s Brake Fluid Quality
04. OTC 4598 Brake Fluid Tester
The OTC 4598 brake fluid tester helps one detect bad brake fluid before it destroys the brake system components, such as the expensive brake calipers. It determines the quality of DOT3 fluid and also measures moisture content from 0-4%. It shuts off automatically after 12 seconds if left unused. The tester is easy to use and interpret.
When you power it on, the tester runs a self-test, and the green light stays on, indicating that the fluid tester is ready to test for moisture. It works well, and you get to save time and money. The tester can serve you for a long time if you take good care of it.
- DOT3 Brake Fluid Tester
- It Measures Moisture Level from 0%-4%
- 1.5V AAA Battery
- Shuts off Automatically After 12 seconds
- Has LED Lights that Show the Percentage of Moisture
05. Automotive Brake Fluid Tester
No products found.
On most brake fluid tester reviews, the automotive brake fluid tester with an oil inspection gooseneck never misses. It is certainly one of the best testers for DOT3, DOT4, and DOT5 brake fluids. Its packaging includes a user manual and a brake fluid tester, but it does not include a battery.
The tester’s extended gooseneck helps ensure flexibility of detection. It is an excellent product if you need to test multiple vehicles and different fluids. The tester measures water content at up to 4%. A reading above 1.5% indicates you need to drain and replace the brake fluid.
- It tests the water-to-brake fluid ratio scale
- It has a 250mm gooseneck probe that gives the flexibility for detection
- The chromed detector that is resistant to oxidation and oils
- Red light double and a buzzing alarm system
- One-hand operation
06. BELEY Automotive Tester
The BELEY fluid tester features a great design and can test all types of brake fluids, from DOT3 to DOT5. If you are not sure what type of brake fluid your vehicle uses, you can simply look at the brake fluid color to use this tester, which would work just fine. It uses a 9V battery that is sold separately. It powers up and lets the user audibly know that it is ready.
Changing modes is as easy as a single button press. It usually feels light in your hand despite its body size, but it has a great grip. It has a durable, well-made ABS plastic that is easy to read. Its accuracy is unmatched, thus making it reliable. A similar model, but with a 2.2” LCD for cars is the BELEY Tester with 2.2” LCD.
- Premium Design
- It is Convenient due to a Perfect Size and Clear Results
- Quality Warranty up to 24 Months
- Universal fit for Many Vehicles
07. Mrcartool Tester
No products found.
The Mrcartool brake fluid tester is a fantastic tool for all types of brake fluid. This tool is a must-have to ensure safe driving. It tests the water-to-brake fluid ratio as a percentage to help you perform maintenance. The test results are usually clear and accurate.
It determines the quality of the brake fluid and also measures moisture content from 0-4%. It shuts off automatically after 12 seconds if not in use. The tester is easy to use and interpret. A reading above 1.5% indicates you need to drain and replace the brake fluid. If it has been in use for a long time, it is best to remove all the batteries and store them in a cool, dry place.
- Hand-held size
- Red light and buzzing double alarm system
- Chromed detector resistant to oxidation and oils
- A 250mm gooseneck
08. VXSCAN Auto Tool
No products found.
The VXSCAN tool is a simple, economical, and reasonably accurate device that tests for moisture in brake fluids. It works well and is very easy to use. You only need to put in the battery, place the probes in the reservoir, and start testing as soon as possible.
For an affordable price, you get a lot more than what you pay for. A quality warranty is also offered in case the product you receive does not work. You should take good care of the product to ensure it lasts long and serves you well. This tester pen quickly determines whether you need to change your brake fluid. To use it, press the power button, and the green LED lights up. Insert the VXSCAN into the reservoir for a second and then read the results.
- Accurate
- Fast
- Small and compact
- 1.5V Battery
09. OEMTOOLS 25269
The OEM tools brake fluid tester 25269 is a handy, portable pocket tester that is easy to take from one place to another. It is a brake fluid tester for DOT 3, 4, and 5.1 brake fluids. It comes from a trustworthy manufacturer and is made to meet international standards. The tester simply never disappoints. After use, it turns itself off after a period of inactivity.
It is easy to switch between fluids because they are easy to interpret. It comes with a full instructions manual. Most people like it because it can be pocketed and carried around, making it a handy pocket brake fluid tester. Also, it comes with a quality warranty.
- Handy Tester with a Pocket Retaining Clip
- Built-in Self-Test
- AAA Battery
- Simple Push Button for Changing Fluid Types
- Auto-Off
- Complete Instructions Manual
- Quick, Accurate Results
- Built-in LED light
Using a Brake Fluid Tester
Usually, manufacturers specify a mileage or time after which you need to change the brake fluid. For the test, you would need a dirty cloth, a pentester, or a multimeter, and the knowledge on how to test brake fluid with a multimeter or an LED pen.
A test can be completed in just a few minutes, say 2 to 5. You should find an LED pen that is compatible with your vehicle’s brake fluid type, whether DOT3, 4, or 5, because not all work for all fluids. You should then locate the brake fluid reservoir, which is normally on the firewall. Wipe down the surrounding areas before opening it to avoid introducing contaminants into the fluid.
Power up the tester, and the green light turns on automatically. Select the brake fluid type, then remove the protective cap from the pen. Remove the caps, dip the probes into the brake fluid, and watch the reading. The readings are usually 0-4%, with 4 being the highest, which necessitates a fluid change.
After removing the probes, wipe them off and close the reservoir as quickly as possible. For a detailed illustration, watch this video:
What to Consider While Buying a Brake Fluid Tester
1. Type of Brake Fluid
Before you commit to buying a brake fluid tester, double-check that it is compatible with the type of brake fluid your vehicle uses. Different types of brake fluids absorb moisture at different rates. Thus, it would not be advisable to use the same tester for all fluids. If it has to be one tester for your various vehicles, ensure it can measure all types of brake fluid first.
2. Build Quality
This is one of the main considerations you ought to take into account. If a tester is not of excellent build quality, it will most likely disappoint you or yield inaccurate results. Just like any other investment, you have to carry out due research on the best and most trustworthy manufacturers before spending your hard-earned money on a tool that will not even last two or three uses.
Moreover, some testers are made to measure the water ratio in a few seconds; hence, they have very sensitive probes.
3. Specific Features and Other Accessories
Some brake fluid testers offer features that make them easier to use and yield more accurate results. For instance, one may use LED lights to display the corresponding percentage of water, while others may display it on a screen. One LED fluid tester pen may come with a free battery, while others require you to buy one separately.
4. Price
Price is also important to consider, although it does not always guarantee quality. You should only buy what you can afford. Always keep in mind that an expensive tester does not mean it is the best on the market. You can find cheaper options that offer similar or even better efficiency. On the same note, you would not expect a cheaply priced brake fluid tester to give the most accurate results or reliable service.
Look for product reviews and see what other customers have to say about the product you are interested in. If most people say it is good, it is highly likely to perform well, or even exceed your expectations.
Lastly, if its design appeals to you, go for it. Always look at all specs a tester has to offer. Put your taste or preference into consideration, and from the best brake fluid tester reviews, you can narrow down to an option that you think would work great for you. The most important thing to consider is whether it suits your vehicle’s brake fluid and whether it delivers professional-grade results.
FAQs
What Does a Brake Fluid Tester Do?
Brake fluid gradually absorbs moisture due to its hygroscopic nature. A brake fluid tester measures the ratio of moisture content in a vehicle’s brake fluid. It provides accurate results in seconds, allowing the reader to identify cars that need a brake fluid change.
As a result, it contributes to increased sales of brake fluid flushes and brake fluid. These testers use the boiling-point method, the only approved method that provides reliable, accurate results. The brake fluid tester thus helps you decide whether it is still safe to use the current brake fluid.
What Happens If You Put Antifreeze In Your Brake Fluid?
Antifreeze is meant only for coolant fluids, as it alters a fluid’s boiling and melting points. If you add antifreeze to the brake fluid, it will almost function normally. However, the brake light on the dash may light, indicating there is a problem with your braking system. The coolant may end up ruining the expensive calipers, rubber brake hoses, brake master cylinder, and other components.
It is thus advisable to flush the entire brake fluid system to avoid chemical reactions that could pose a safety hazard to you and other motorists. Eventually, brake failure may result.
How Do You Test Brake Fluid For Contamination?
You require plastic gloves and a brake fluid test kit for this DIT project. To check your vehicle’s brake fluid for contamination, remove the master cylinder cover and then dip a testing strip into the fluid. Immediately after you remove the test strip, replace the master cylinder cover to prevent it from absorbing moisture.
Shake off excess fluid from the test strip without allowing it to come into contact with your skin, clothes, or car paint. Wait about 60 seconds before comparing the strips’ resulting color to the guide on the brake fluid test package. The guide will tell you if it is time to change the brake fluid.
Does Brake Fluid Mix With Water?
In the short term, the brakes work perfectly okay. However, brake fluid is said to be hygroscopic. This means it has a high capacity to absorb moisture from the atmosphere, so it should remain airtight at all times.
It is not allowed to mix with water, but over time, it absorbs some water, reducing its overall efficiency. Once the fluid tests show water above 2%, then it is time to change the fluid before it corrodes the internal parts of the braking system.
What Is Better, DOT 3 or DOT 4?
Both DOT3 and DOT4 fluids are glycol ether-based. They are mainly used in modern trucks and cars because they are compatible with ABS brakes. The main difference between the two is their boiling points. Inasmuch as DOT4 has a higher boiling point than DOT3, they are both compatible and hence can be mixed.
Conclusion
Moisture-laden brake fluid may cause metallic components in the braking system to corrode and rust, resulting in rust particles in your brake fluid. You should always ensure the brake fluid reservoir cap is closed tightly to prevent dirt or debris from entering the braking system. The results would be reduced braking efficiency, which is a safety concern.
For most vehicles, the time to change brake fluid is usually indicated in the owner’s manual; if you are not sure, use a good brake fluid tester to determine whether it is time to drain the brake fluid. Your safety and that of other motorists matter at all times; thus, the braking system should never be taken for granted.
Read More:
